Resolving a Misunderstanding
MMADfan954 Reviews | 954 Ratings, 0 Likes, 108 Favorites )
Minerva has just finished her first term teaching. A series of misunderstandings leads to an embarrassing moment, injured feelings, regret, growing understanding, then resolution. A Minerva McGonagall fic set in 1957, with forays into the past. More than a Romance; stories within stories. Features Minerva, Albus, and Poppy, with appearances by Slughorn, Grubbly-Plank, Hagrid, Flitwick, Moody, Riddle, Grindelwald, and other canon characters. Not DH-compliant. Disregards DH.
Nineteen Parts.
Most content T-rated, but ratings rise to M and MA for several later chapters. Overall M rating reflects later content.
Pertinent warnings in individual chapter summaries.
Voted First Place, Minerva McGonagall: Legacy Fic, in the HP Fanfiction Fan Poll Awards Spring/Summer 2013.
Chapters (141)
About MMADfan
Author
MMADfan
41 Stories | Favorited by 312 | 127 Reviews Written | 4,741 Review Responses
Note 10 December 2015: I've been unable to write fanfic the last couple years, but I haven't abandoned my works-in-progress!
Many of my completed fics are available for download in ebook format through my blog and LJ.
Perfect Imagination accredited beta. PI:7311261659.
More about me here. 
Reviews for Resolving a Misunderstanding
“You know, Professor, what Carson did, it didn’t end when he pushed you out of the way of the explosion. It didn’t even end when he died. It won’t ever end, not really. Whatever you do for the rest of your life, for good or for ill, will be thanks to Carson. Aside from your friends, colleagues, and students who will benefit from your continued life, companionship, and teaching, the wizarding world is relying on you to help bring this war to an end. I have faith that you can do this, that you are doing this. When you end this war, when you defeat Grindelwald, Carson will be there with you because he made it possible. So never again say, never even think, that Carson’s death was meaningless or his choice foolish. He may not get the recognition that he deserves for it, but he wouldn’t care about that. He would just be happy that he was able to help you to succeed and then go on to live the rest of your life. That was the way Carson was. That’s why you loved him and why his death is painful for you. But clearly I cannot help you with that.” Minerva stood. “We should go in to dinner now, Professor.”*snip*Beautiful and completely IN character for Minerva, whom I have always viewed as extreamly logical.
Response from MMADfan (Author of Resolving a Misunderstanding)
Thank you! 
“Your offer is appreciated, but unnecessary. I appreciate what you did in France. You were brave, competent, efficient, and clever. And I am proud of you. But I do not need anything from you now,” Albus said softly.*snip*Well.... that gnarly, old bastard.... Minerva is truly an amazing woman to stand there and listen to him in his pity party while being an absolute oaf... yet another reason to take this GIT out and flog him merciless.
Response from MMADfan (Author of Resolving a Misunderstanding)
Yeah, that was not a high point in their relationship. And Minerva was certainly justified in being cool toward him after that. However, her words did not go unheeded -- he does learn, fortunately! But it will be a while before we revisit that scene, I think -- I'm trying to remember when that comes up again . . . Anyway, he does see his errors! Minerva is good at pointing them out to him, though she gets better at it as she matures.
Merwyn is brilliant, and an odd father - wish I had a dad like him... I love his move to show the letter to Albus... and I love that Minerva's parents both saw in Albus and Minerva, what neither of them can accept - even now, after all this time, and being as brilliant as they both are... plain as day to anyone who knows them, but oblivious to the two of them.And I seriously have to take Albus out and flog him... *shakes head*
Response from MMADfan (Author of Resolving a Misunderstanding)
Don't worry -- he's kind of metaphorically self-flagellating enough on and off during this fic! I doubt he'd even notice! haha!I could see Minerva as having a gentle, scholarly father, but one who is very affectionate with his family, and who also was quite happy with a slightly unconventional marriage. Once you meet his mother Siofre, however, you'll think him practically conventional in comparison. 
I'm glad you like Merwyn. You'll see more of him and Egeria at other points in the story.Cheers for reviewing! 
Glad you're still enjoying the story even if Albus is aggravating you!
Response from Fishy (Reviewer)
Albus AND Minerva aggravating me.... she could easily take up the initiative herself - as a matter of fact, that is who I would expect to... generally. Albus seems, in his absolute form (meaning as J.K wrote him) to be self-denying in general, as well as being so humble, I honestly think, your story or otherwise, he feels he is undeserving of love.Regardless of all that, I still think he needs a good flogging. 
Response from MMADfan (Author of Resolving a Misunderstanding)
LOL!I'm glad you feel that they're pretty much in-character!
Sigh.That was so romantic. If they have enough "not dates", at some point they will realize that they "are dates".I am not going to bring up all of the double entendre present in Albus trusting his wand into Minerva's hands. I am sure she would take very good care of it.As always, waiting anxiously for that magic moment when these two realize and accept what they both feel.
Response from MMADfan (Author of Resolving a Misunderstanding)
"I am not going to bring up all of the double entendre present in Albus trusting his wand into Minerva's hands. I am sure she would take very good care of it."
Teehee! I'm sure I've already thought of most of them myself! ;D
Eventually it will happen: they will have a date and both of them will know it!
Thanks for reviewing!
Cute chapter! Hmm, would Albus have done more to say goodnight if Minnie had accepted the side-along apparition offer? Or did Peeves just kill the mood?
Response from MMADfan (Author of Resolving a Misunderstanding)
Glad you liked the chapter; I think Albus felt he'd be best to just say good night to Minerva like an ordinary friend. Thanks for reviewing!
OH OH OH OH OH OHHHHHHHHHHHHH, i has an IDEA! You, the sweet, awful, teasing matchmaker you - I think I see another love match budding - am I right? OOOH, I think it might happen - Poppy and Quin?????? 
Response from MMADfan (Author of Resolving a Misunderstanding)
Well, Minerva would like that to happen. We'll have to see! Life is long . . . LOL!
Denial, denial, denial.... as much as I love this story - 55 chapters of constant denial has my teeth on edge.... *sighs* I surely hope that they will spare my nerves and just tell eachother SOON!Please... dear God in Heaven...
Response from Fishy (Reviewer)
Oh and I'm going to shoot Bloo....
Response from MMADfan (Author of Resolving a Misunderstanding)
Re: Bloo. Just imagine how I felt. And then she began reviewing An Act of Love in the same fashion. It was rather wearing!Don't worry, they will eventually, after many intervening events, tell each other. And it will be soon! 
Just not in terms of chapters. But you'll have lots of story to distract you from your/their frustration until that moment arrives!
Response from Fishy (Reviewer)
*mutters* 
If Albus kissed her cheek the way he did on Monday morning, but then didn’t stop with her cheek, but moved to her lips and pulled her into an embrace, holding her in his arms, kissing her . . . Minerva almost moaned aloud, whether from despair or desire, she was unsure, herself.*snip*That is so tangible - I very easily feel her need, longing and despair.
Response from MMADfan (Author of Resolving a Misunderstanding)
Her need and longing will continue, and even increase; as for her despair . . . you'll see what becomes of that!Thanks!
I really love how you've used this vacation at the Gamp's to show Minerva how absolutely influential and essential she is to Albus, without her even being aware - because EVERYONE at the party knows of her and - other than the idiots - think so highly of her, she's almost famous like Harry was - he was clueless - and so is Minerva - but Albus talked about her nonstop apparantly, and she influenced soooo much in her life - and is is only NOW getting a hint of just how highly he thinks of her, and how open he is about his admiration, love and respect.This was incredibly well woven into the story, through so many characters.
Response from MMADfan (Author of Resolving a Misunderstanding)
Thank you so much! I was terribly disappointed, I must confess, when some people didn't bother to read this section of chapters because Albus wasn't in them. I thought they were rather crucial to the development of the story, and people were only interested in seeing Minerva & Albus together -- not most people, of course, but some. So it's gratifying to know that you've seen so much of what I was "giving Minerva" in this chapter -- as well as setting up the relationship with Quin, which becomes crucial (I doubt that's a spoiler to you!) and having Minerva and the readers come to know Gertrude more, who is also important to the story.Minerva's awareness, even if it was partially subconcious, of how Albus feels about her and the regard he has for her, really increased after this visit. She also learned of the existence of Valerianna Yaxley here, which was important. It's almost like a mystery story, where Minerva is solving the mystery of Albus, but she doesn't really know she's doing it. But she's being given "puzzle pieces," and the Gamp party gave her many of them!Thanks very much! Or, "Cheers for reviewing!"
Response from Fishy (Reviewer)
Gertrude is, quite obviously, very important to this story - I had absolutely no clue in the begining, at Hogwarts, just how amazing a person she was/is - and I would never have learned that if you had not had Minerva attend this God Awful Party... and I should make a wee confession - I kind of expected this party to be a bit of fluff and filler for atmosphere, and while it does provide plenty of that - it is far, far more and so very vital to the story - I can't imagine how anyone could read a book and only read the first and last few chapters - *slaps those people*
Response from MMADfan (Author of Resolving a Misunderstanding)
I find it hard to keep plot out of my chapters! LOL! Story just keeps seeping in! Gertrude is one of those characters, like Quin (and even Valerianna) who sprang pretty much fully formed into my head, with complete characters and personalities. I don't understand the process of writing fiction and creating characters, even now, after having written so much, but it's really satisfying and enjoyable. I'm glad you're enjoying it so much!
*sputters* OMG I LAUGHED so hard.... “I have no idea what you are talking about, and it is quite clear that you don’t, either, but I will not hear another bad word about the Headmaster.” Minerva was fairly shaking, any attempts at calming herself a failure.*snip*OH that is SOOOOOOOOOOOO McGonagall..... just looooooove that! And may this Valley witch burn on a cross somewhere with lots of hooded men with pitchforks.
Response from MMADfan (Author of Resolving a Misunderstanding)
Believe me, Val's fate ain't a pretty one, but you won't learn it in this story.Yes, Minerva is in full-blown sizzle mode here! She's one of my favorites from HP. (Well, duh! I am writing a very long story pretty much devoted to her, after all! lol)
Response from Fishy (Reviewer)
Valerianna didn’t finish what she was about to say about Albus, because, simultaneously, Quin appeared behind her and pulled her roughly toward the door, and Minerva drew her wand from the folds of her robe and pointed it at her. *snip* YES..... turn her into a dung beetle! GOOOOOO MINERVA! I actually have a replica of Minerva's wand from the movies, I'm going to get it out and twirl it while I read the rest of this chapter.... and the next.... damn beastly primordial ooze that she is....
Response from MMADfan (Author of Resolving a Misunderstanding)
Props! Oh, yeah! Props! Enhance the fun! What a great idea!
Response from Fishy (Reviewer)
*snip*At Minerva’s distracted expression, he frowned slightly, then turned, following her gaze. There was Gertrude, the silver in her dress and jewellery reflecting the light, but her face unreadable in the shadows of the balcony. That's not the best impression to make on the woman who is trying to set you up with Albus and ensure her friend and Headmaster's well being... no no... tisk tisk.... but, understandably - Minerva is still bloody clueless about Albus and Quin is so enjoyable... I hope Gertie can see what they are playing at.
Response from MMADfan (Author of Resolving a Misunderstanding)
Gertie's a wise Slytherin, 'sall I'm sayin'!
Response from Fishy (Reviewer)
Tease! I'll hoodwink you yet, find your weakness... bribe you with.... something! *mutters*
Response from MMADfan (Author of Resolving a Misunderstanding)
heheheheh
“May I have this dance, ma’am?”Minerva blinked. “Don’t you want to dance with one of the girls?” There were two girls there about his age, one a little younger, one a little older.“I want to dance with the most beautiful witch in the room, ma’am,” he said with a flattering but self-confident grin. “Besides, Clara has a crush on Barty, Fiona is spoiled, and Elissa is boring. And Bella is just . . . weird.” He looked up at his father. “I will dance with Aine, Da, I promise.” He turned back to Minerva and held out his small hand.*snip*Oh he is too adorable for words.... and has his father's CHARM and confidence.... a heartbreaker in the making, if ever I saw one! Sounds exactly like my son, but he's only 3, thankfully, I can stow the shotgun for a while yet.
Response from MMADfan (Author of Resolving a Misunderstanding)
Some boys are sooo like that! I've known two-year-olds who already figured out how to charm every female they encounter! LOL! Very glad you like him.
Minerva couldn’t remember the last time she’d seen such a blatant display of bad taste. To announce one’s own engagement publicly was something of a faux pas in itself – a friend or relative should be enlisted – but what was worse, how had the witch ever thought it appropriate to make such an announcement at the celebration of another couple’s engagement? Minerva was not particularly keen one way or the other on the social niceties of pureblood society, but it was common courtesy and respect for the feelings of the engaged couple not to do such a tasteless thing. *snip*HAWHAWHAWHAW.......... OMG HAWWWWWWWwwwwwwww Priceless.... absolutely priceless... I'm in tears here... *grins*
Response from MMADfan (Author of Resolving a Misunderstanding)
hahahaha! I have to say, I'm enjoying the story vicariously through you in a wonderful way! Thanks!
Response from Fishy (Reviewer)
Dawwwwwwww *grins*
“Oh, but it is somethin’! It’s . . . it’s the most wonderful thing I’ve ever seen! An’ you’ve been doin’ it for so long!” Alroy exclaimed.Minerva tilted her head, looking at him. It had been almost as though he had known what she had thought. How . . . peculiar. She looked into the boy’s eyes. She had discovered early on, to her great amazement and to Albus’s amusement, that she could communicate rather well with some animals when she was in her Animagus form; it was easiest with magical creatures, such as hippogriffs and kneazles, but she could even have a rudimentary conversation with mundane animals, although it was usually too much work, and they had very dull and uninteresting thoughts. Minerva narrowed her eyes and thought very distinctly, “I have been transforming longer than you have been alive.” Then she waited.“I’m only eleven . . . how old were you when you first became an Animagus?”*snip*Sheer brilliance, sheer bloody brilliance.... you never cease to amaze, you do!
Response from MMADfan (Author of Resolving a Misunderstanding)
Aw, now I really wish there were a blushie icon!But I'm glad you like that! (Someday, in A Long Vernal Season, a story is retold of how that particular ability once got Alroy in a wee bit of trouble when he was in school! So if you keep reading the RaMverse fics, he'll pop up again!)
Response from Fishy (Reviewer)
He's quite adorable, just like his Da! 
“I still don’t understand . . . .”*snip*OMG how can a super genius like Minerva NOT GET IT? I wish Gertie would just flat out SAY IT! Val thinks Albus is in love with you, you twit! SHEESH
Response from Fishy (Reviewer)
Oooh, and the tutoring session with Albus watching was endearing and soooooooo awesome!I actually had considered something very similar for my fic - and now I feel like I robbed it from you - but this was before I ever read your fic, so I will have to rework it or leave it out entirely - but I love that Albus figured out she could sense him even when he was cloaked - I looooooove that.
Response from MMADfan (Author of Resolving a Misunderstanding)
Gertie's being as obvious as she can be (for her!), and Minerva's still not getting it. haha! Yep, Valerianna was jealous as hell of Minerva back when she & Albus were "together," because Albus so clearly loved her -- and of course, Val made sure that when Albus was in London, he never had any time to visit Minerva. Jealous old cow. 
I'm glad you like the tutoring session -- hey, if that sort of thing fits into your story, use it! It certainly does "fit" their relationship! It's a logical kind of extrapolation. And there's no way you coulda robbed it from me, so that should leave you even freer. But if it mkes you feel funny & unhappy, don't! Just don't leave it out on account of RaM! 
They did have a nice time when they were together . . . better than “nice,” from his perspective, Albus thought, remembering their recent meals together and their outing to London, and Minerva seemed to value it, as well. But he would have to make sure that she did not feel obligated to spend time with him and that he did not monopolise her when she could be getting to know other wizards, such as Quin.*snip*I so want to hug him and make him feel better, and then flog him sensless until he GETS A CLUE! *groans* When are these two going to GET IT?????????? *sighs*Okay, so Minerva and I both share a particular characteristic.... impatience.
Response from MMADfan (Author of Resolving a Misunderstanding)
Well, I don't think it's been even a week since she was yelling about him in Poppy's office, so give them a bit of time!
They would have beautiful children. . . . Albus swallowed. This was ridiculous; he had them married with children, and they’d only just met!*snip*Oh my! Wasn't there a particular witch who was JUST THINKING THAT SAME THING of a particular wizard???? OH these TWO! I'm flogging them both if they don't jump each other when she returns! I am! WITH SALTWATER! *pulls hair out*
Response from Fishy (Reviewer)
*snip*He slept poorly that night, finding it difficult to fall asleep, then waking up at one o’clock, thinking of Minerva. My my my..... how interesting.
Response from MMADfan (Author of Resolving a Misunderstanding)
They can't help themselves! LOL!
“You have a source of great sadness and pain in your life, and yet . . . it is also the source of your greatest happiness. It could bring you even greater joy, but you restrain yourself from acting. There is someone . . . you have given your heart. Someone holds your heart. You pretend that he does not. He is the source of your sorrow and your joy. But you deny it. No . . . not now, you denied it in the past, but you still do not allow it into your life. You have committed yourself to him . . . but you do not act on that commitment. He holds your heart and you have given it to him . . . and it is replaced with a longing. You must reclaim your heart and give it to him openly, with no denial, or there will be only sadness and longing, and your joy will die. Do not let your joy die, Minerva. You love him. Let him know that he holds your heart. Let him love you.”*snip*I feel like Bloo or a broken record - but this is freaking BRILLIANT! And had Minerva not actually requested that he use some of his innate talent, and been tired to fight him, she probably would have stopped him half way through before he could finish - but the setting was absolutely brilliant - so well timed, so revealing, and so forward - something she really, truly needs to face - and he's absolutely right - over time, she would begin to grow weary of the false life she was trying to maintain.
Response from Fishy (Reviewer)
*snip*“I’m glad to hear that,” Quin replied softly, taking her hand. “But if ever you are . . . I’d like to think we are friends. I am sorry if I have trod too close, but ’twas so strong – ’tis dominatin’ your life, Minerva, this sadness that you do not have, this emptiness that you do not feel, this longing that is not there.”More unadulterated brilliance there.
Response from MMADfan (Author of Resolving a Misunderstanding)
Aw, thanks! I am very glad that you enjoyed those speeches of Quin's, in particular that last. I'd insert a blushie emoticon here if there were one.Having an empathic friend can be an odd gift, but one that Minerva will come to appreciate.
At one point, Quin placed his hand on Minerva’s thigh, almost physically restraining her. Valerianna had begun to discourse on how some witches and wizards were simply unmarriageable but didn’t have a clue about the reason no one would want them. Minerva had been just about to jump into the conversation with a remark or two of her own about who was and who wasn’t marriageable when Quin’s left hand landed on her leg. Minerva glowered at him, in a thoroughly foul mood after having had to listen to the witch’s strident voice waxing on about marriage, suitability, and “the right people.” Quin just gripped her leg and glanced at her out of the corner of his eye before shaking his head slightly. Minerva was about to say something anyway, but then she remembered Poppy’s words of caution and took a bite of her dinner, instead. Quin gave her a quick pat before returning his hand to his own lap.*snip*Yet more brilliance - not only do you show how protective Quin already is of Minerva, and helpful, and "brotherly" but you show very clearly how Minerva isn't just a cat in heat who responds to anyone's touch - as Albus had touched her leg not a few days before, nearly sending her into thralls of oblivious ecstasy - very nice dual analogy to show that Albus truly, has an amazing pull on her, and even though she really likes Quin, and has already been fairly intimate wtih him - even joking - and he's a totally desirable man - he does not affect her sensual desire.
Response from MMADfan (Author of Resolving a Misunderstanding)
I think you're the only person (whom I know of, anyway) who's noticed the implied analogy and contrast there. In fact, Quin was more aware of its possible "intimate" overtones than Minerva was, though he did mean it only as a gentle cautionary gesture.Cheers for reviewing! (But really, thanks!)
OOH I just keep liking Gertie more and more and more.... and Quin is ever so entertaining... I haven't been this hooked on a book since I first read through Rowling's novels - I mean you have some real talent here (of course you know that - duh) seriously, I would love to see some of your own work - that you could legally publish, that is - you've got an amazing ability to write personalities and natural dialogue.I'm totally hooked! 
OH - forgot - Cheers for posting!
Response from MMADfan (Author of Resolving a Misunderstanding)
Cheers for reviewing! It was quite a stunner to suddenly find myself writing fiction, and then to discover I could write dialogue! But I still do get insecurities about my writing, and I imagine that a lot of writers do. And I always think of things I might have done differently or that could have used just one more polish before posting. But then if I kept polishing, I'd probably never post, and likely wouldn't get much written, either!I'm very happy to hear that you're enjoying the story so much -- it really is good to know that it's entertaining you and drawing you in. Thanks so much! I do appreciate your reviews!
Response from Fishy (Reviewer)
Glad you enjoy the reviews, because I ain't stopping anytime soon Sweetheart! HAW!I totally understand your ideas on polishing... been writing nonfiction for years and after working at a newspaper for twelve of those years, and getting my work hacked to bits... I wouldn't publish anything unless I simply ran out of time becuase I couldn't stop editing long enough to actually hit "publish"... very much looking forward to enjoying the rest of this amazing yarn of yours, as well as developing my first attempt at fanfic....Anyhoo - don't listen to those insecurities.... seriously... they don't help anything and I think you've got enough proof, even if you don't believe me, from all your other glorious reviews, to know that this ain't just a bunch of fluff, this is amazing.And if you do publish fiction of your own, please send me your pen name so I can BUY IT!
Response from MMADfan (Author of Resolving a Misunderstanding)
I will! Right now, I'm working on another (nonfiction) writing project, so that's taking precedence over my novel, but I'll get back to it at some point, I'm sure!
Response from Fishy (Reviewer)
By any chance.... its a long shot but I am most curious - do you play or read any Dungeons and Dragons? I myself have been playing since I was just a kid, and after playing one particular character for 4 years online, I've build a huge backstory for her and ended up starting a book based on her history, clan and lore - she's a dwarf - the race dwarves, not simply small humans.I could imagine you writing a lot of interesting arcane work in the Dungeons and Dragons theme.
Response from MMADfan (Author of Resolving a Misunderstanding)
I played a little bit in college, eons ago. (Really, eons!) And that is the sort of game that appeals to me (actually, I like all kinds of games), but haven't had much opportunity in the last *mumble-mumble* years. Also had some role-playing friends in grad school, and would very occasionally play with them, but I don't even remember what the names of those games were, but we did have fun.
Response from Fishy (Reviewer)
AhA! I thought so!Eons here too... I probably feel older than I am.... but I'm mostly gray/silver these days.
Oh HO! A HUFFLEPUFF! By far the most hard working of all the houses, and the one least likely to gloat or expect special treatment.... how very interesting.... the plot thickens.... *winks*
Response from MMADfan (Author of Resolving a Misunderstanding)
Yes, she has a strong Hufflepuff streak in her, and it will crop up now & again!As for hard-working, no question about it!(She's also a Capricorn!)
Response from Fishy (Reviewer)
I don't know much about Astrology... all my life I was told I was a Leo - and now they changed things on me and added another critter to the list - now supposedly I'm a Virgo? Yeah... that don't fly....What do Capricorns do anyway? Or, rather, what are they supposed to do?
Response from MMADfan (Author of Resolving a Misunderstanding)
Strong, stubborn, hard-working, a whole bunch of stuff like that. (As you can tell, I'm well-versed in astrology! lol!)
Response from Fishy (Reviewer)
Sounds like me! All I know about leos is we're a but of egocentric, megalomaniac, strong, stubborn and demanding personalities that tend to bask in glory quite a bit, and roar a lot.I don't know that much about attention seeking and wanting to bask in glory, but I can attest to roaring a lot and being quite stubborn and demanding... alas... nobody's perfect! *winks*
Response from MMADfan (Author of Resolving a Misunderstanding)
I set on Albus as a Leo, and as having been born on Lughnasadh, since I felt that the combination was a really good one for him. Rather nice to find out that in canon, he was intended to be a summer baby.
Response from Fishy (Reviewer)
Aye, he was supposed to be born sometime between July and August - just like me! August 30th! *coughs modestly* Yes I know, the similarities between Albus and I are truly, remarkable... *winks*
Response from Fishy (Reviewer)
Er, I flubbed that - JULY 30th - mom's was august 30th... I've been up way too long reading and seem to have lost half my mind.... OH yeah, Cheers for posting!
Response from MMADfan (Author of Resolving a Misunderstanding)
Can be easily overlooked! A few members of my family have very similar birthdates, and I sometimes have to pause and think to make sure I'm remembering which one's which correctly!My birthday is October 3rd, the day before Minerva's official birthday, so that's occasionally a little confusing & I have to remind myself that her b'day's one day after mine, not the same day.CFR! (Cheers for reviewing!)
Response from MMADfan (Author of Resolving a Misunderstanding)
"I've been up way too long reading and seem to have lost half my mind..."Does this mean that reading RaM is dangerous for your mental health? 
Response from Fishy (Reviewer)
Actually, I consider it more of a Godsend - its very theraputic for me right now. Can't thank you enough for taking the time to share such beauty with the world.
Response from MMADfan (Author of Resolving a Misunderstanding)
I'm very glad. That's good to know, and very heart-warming.
My my my... what IS this Slytherin proposing.... is SHE in on this? IS SHE trying to set Albus and Minerva up romantically or as his Deputy Headmistress... or WHAT? Certainly, I am seriously considering that Albus and Gertie have discussed this sitaution and partied together to convince Minerva to do something.... I just don't know exactly WHAT yet...I do love how Gertie goaded her by implying that she may be too young after all, as a smoke screen to get Minerva to step up to the plate, so to speak, or grab hold of the wand. *winks*And furthermore - Indeed, I was touched by your confession that you had already begun to miss me because, if I may make a confession of my own, as I stood there prepared to Portkey away, all I wanted to do was stay and spend the day with you. I hope you forgive my own sentimentality.*snip*And... Nonetheless, I would prefer your company to any other, and I wish you were here. Since you are not, however, I must make do!*snip*Now, the ball is in Albus' court - or section of the Quidditch pitch - because that right there says everything - if he can't figure out she's in love with him... he's obviously lost that great brain of his.
Response from MMADfan (Author of Resolving a Misunderstanding)
Albus has a huge blind spot when it comes to a certain area of his personal life, sadly! Even brilliant men can be complete fools when it comes to the opposite sex! lol!Gertrude is acting off her own bat, so to speak, but she knows or guesses far more than she's said to Minerva (or to Albus), and she is, indeed, engaged in certain manoeuvers to try to steer Minerva in particular ways!
Response from Fishy (Reviewer)
Yummm... all the more reason to love this dry snake. (I like snakes, by the way, used to breed colubrids - though I don't consider most Slytherins snakes, but more like rotten tomatos).Gertie is really, awesomesauce. Oh yeah, forgot to add - "Cheers for posting!"
Response from MMADfan (Author of Resolving a Misunderstanding)
I like snakes, too. I used to catch garter snakes when I was a kid and keep them in shoeboxes in my bedroom closet. After a few days, I'd let them go so they could eat! lol! (Mom wasn't always very pleased to find what I was keeping in my bedroom -- there were occasional surprises! )
Response from Fishy (Reviewer)
YOU TOO? I had rat snakes in my closet... and my mother found out becuase I was smuggling mice into the house to feed them - EEKS! bad me.... I was a naughty one
Response from MMADfan (Author of Resolving a Misunderstanding)
Well, what else is a girl to do when she gets bored of her friends' Barbie collections and her little sister has wrecked all her favorite toys?
Minerva closed the door. “Well, good-morning to you, too, Gertrude. So nice to see you; how was your sleep? Good, happy to hear it; I slept well, too, thank you very much,” Minerva grumbled to herself as she began sorting through her clothes to find something appropriate for the morning. *snip* HAW! That's my thought exactly! Wake ME up without my coffee and see how you like THAT!
Response from MMADfan (Author of Resolving a Misunderstanding)
Yes, Minerva was a bit grouchy being woken up like that! And I agree about coffee in the morning -- best not to speak to me until I've made my way through at least half of a large mug of good strong coffee!
I am thinking of Minerva, putting myself in her shoes, and I have, unfortunatly, had to spend time with people similar to this... and it can be quite a horrible and exhausting experience. Needless to say, Albus had an idea that she will be meeting people who aren't at all worthy of her kind and honorable nature, and really shows what an exceptional person he is, his grace and kindness exuding, as always, in writing such a tender letter, that at least, shows me, just how much he loves her - and I can't imagine how she can't now see it as well. The letter and the gift are just so tender, I smiled the entire time I read through it - twice that was, and I'll be reading it again shortly.Thank you for creating something so beautiful between them.
Response from Fishy (Reviewer)
I almost forgot - I was interested to read the bit about wandless magic - a very interesting subject to me because the use of wands is, in my opinion, only an extension of one's magic - but magic is an odd element, in any respect. I really like how you interjected an idea but didn't go into a long, scientific discussion of it just yet - as it would not fit in this scenario - but later, I think I'll enjoy learning more about your take on innate magic. My fic with MMAD has quite a lot of the aspect of innate magic in it, which I find quite thought provoking, as apparantly, so do you.
Response from MMADfan (Author of Resolving a Misunderstanding)
Yes, I think that a lot of what we see of magic in the books is just the tip ofthe iceberg, and a child's view of it. It would be a little like taking a high school physics class and thinking you'd learned all there was to know about physics. We get some glimpses in the books of more complex magic and hints that there is more to it than just "swallow this potion and your headache goes away," or "swish, flick, and say these words, and your object will levitate," but we only see glimpses of it. I think partly because much of it is esoteric, or at least, specialized (I drive a car and basically know the principles behind how they work, but I couldn't just build one myself), and some of it might require a special talent.I'm glad you enjoy that bit -- I do like putting in magic as both an everyday kind of thing that is just a part of life, and as something that can still be somewhat mysterious or complex.As for Albus and Minerva, I think that we certainly can see how much each of them cares for the other, and how much love is between them, so when it comes down to it, the age difference and the power difference aren't really very significant. (I started writing this when we all still believed JKR's statement about Albus that he was 'about 150 years old', so all of my RaM-verse fics put him born in 1840.)
Quin bent his head down, and his breath tickled her ear as he whispered, “Act as though I am saying something charming, roguish, and quite naughty right now.”“Oh, Quin, you really are too much . . . .” Minerva uttered in a low but clear tone. “You can’t really mean . . . .”He whispered in her ear again. “Now act as though I’m kissing your neck and sending you into the heights of ecstasy.”Minerva felt him move his head down so that his face was near her neck. From the top of the stairs, anyone watching would assume that he was doing as he had said, but although he moved his head slightly, his lips never touched her skin. Minerva, feeling rather ridiculous, but unable to back out now, threw her head back and closed her eyes, hoping it looked like she had a blissful expression on her face. “Oh, really, Quin, we should stop now . . . .” she said, quietly again, but loudly enough to be heard down the hall.*snip*Oh this is just too much fun!
Response from Fishy (Reviewer)
And honestly, how on EARTH could Albus the GREAT MAGNIFICENT LION of all time have EVER fallen or even considered that horrible excuse of a witch, Val? Seriously... I need to take Albus out and flog him against a tree.
Response from MMADfan (Author of Resolving a Misunderstanding)
LOL! Yes, nothing is boring when Quin is around to play the rogue!You'll see more of what Albus's "relationship" with that awful witch was like. It might still remain a bit of a head-shaking kind of thing, though.
Okay, I found someone I like even more than Gertie - your characters I mean... and that's Cormac.... brilliant... truly, brilliant...
Response from Fishy (Reviewer)
OH and one more thing, something that you have no control over but I simply MUST comment on - who in the WORLD is Bloo and why is he/she so utterly dull in responding like a robot?????Cheers for posting! See, I have more imagination, I added a goofy face. *winks*
Response from MMADfan (Author of Resolving a Misunderstanding)
LOL! I'd almost forgotten about dear ol' Bloo! Yes, it was quite a puzzle to more than one reader -- not to mention myself -- when she came along. There was an inspiration there for the headmistress to create a filter so that no one could leave more than a few identical reviews. I tried to have a little fun with it, but really, it became rather tedious. I don't think the person really grasped the concept of "review," which can be quite broad, but which, in my oh-so-humble opinion, doesn't include the repetition of "Cheers for posting" over one hundred times -- and I got an email alert for every one of them, on this story and on another. (And here I used to say that any review was better than no review unless it was a flame . . . Live and learn!) I do love your addition of the goofy face! It makes all the difference! LOL!Glad you like Quin -- he was just very narrowly beat by Gertrude as "favorite original character" in a RaM poll I did ages ago, so Gertrude got her own story out of it ("The Unsentimental Arithmancer"). But it was very close! And he's gotten more admirers since. He does appear in later fics, though, and he gets plenty of "page time" in this one, so you'll see him again!Cheers for reviewing!
Response from Fishy (Reviewer)
Ahh, Quin is cute and all, but I still love Gertie better ... figured I should clarify.
Brilliant chapter to show us the snobbery of some folk ... it can be rather hellish to endure such things ... and you do it well, not over done, but subtle. Glad I don't have to suffer the Gamps or Blacks or any of them ... ew!
Response from MMADfan (Author of Resolving a Misunderstanding)
Yeah, people like that are hard to bear -- and it's hard sometimes to keep from being just as rude, but by going too far the opposite direction just to disassociate yourself from them. I'm sure Quin won't mind your loving Gertie better -- he loves her, too! :-)